Lives at risk crossing the treacherous English Channel in small boats

Dover MP Natalie Elphicke has called for renewed action to put a stop to small boat Channel crossings.

The MP pointed to a report, leaked to the Daily Mail, from the Ministry of Defence as evidence that economic migration lies at the heart of this illegal route to the UK.

The leaked report shows that the largest group of Channel migrants, almost 40%, comes from Albania. The MP points out that Albania is not in the midst of war or famine – it is a member of NATO.

The MP says this shows beyond question that many Albanians and others making the Channel crossings are doing so solely for economic reasons and are not refugees fleeing war.

Natalie Elphicke says that those wanting to live and work in the UK should be going about it the right way – applying for a visa by legal routes. The MP called for renewed efforts to tackle the small boats crossings once the next Prime Minister is in place.

‘Taking us for a ride’

Natalie Elphicke MP: “If people need our help, the UK has always showed compassion. But if people are taking us for a ride, then we should show them the door.”

“The UK has a proud record of providing help and assistance around the globe. But it is beyond question that there are economic migrants being smuggled into the UK from safe countries like Albania.

“That’s why Rwanda flights must resume as soon as legally possible – and agreements with other countries should follow. Parliament has passed stronger laws to tackle the small boats, including new criminal offences. These laws must now be enforced.”

By Ed

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